Course Structure Overview
The Physiotherapy program at Des Pune University Pune spans four years and includes a total of 8 semesters. Each semester combines core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions to provide a well-rounded education.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credits (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PY-101 | Introduction to Health Sciences | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | PY-102 | Human Anatomy and Physiology | 4-0-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PY-103 | Basic Biomechanics | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | PY-104 | Introduction to Physiotherapy Practice | 2-0-0-2 | None |
| 1 | PY-105 | Basic Laboratory Skills | 0-0-3-1 | None |
| 2 | PY-201 | Pathology for Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-102 |
| 2 | PY-202 | Pharmacology and Therapeutics | 3-0-0-3 | PY-102 |
| 2 | PY-203 | Musculoskeletal Anatomy | 4-0-0-4 | PY-102 |
| 2 | PY-204 | Basic Clinical Skills | 3-0-0-3 | PY-102 |
| 2 | PY-205 | Biomechanics and Movement Analysis | 3-0-0-3 | PY-103 |
| 3 | PY-301 | Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PY-203 |
| 3 | PY-302 | Neurological Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PY-201, PY-202 |
| 3 | PY-303 | Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PY-201, PY-202 |
| 3 | PY-304 | Pediatric Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-201, PY-202 |
| 3 | PY-305 | Clinical Rotations I | 0-0-6-3 | PY-204 |
| 4 | PY-401 | Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy | 4-0-0-4 | PY-301 |
| 4 | PY-402 | Geriatric Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-301, PY-302 |
| 4 | PY-403 | Manual Therapy Techniques | 3-0-0-3 | PY-301, PY-302 |
| 4 | PY-404 | Community Health Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-301, PY-302 |
| 4 | PY-405 | Clinical Rotations II | 0-0-6-3 | PY-305 |
| 5 | PY-501 | Research Methodology | 2-0-0-2 | None |
| 5 | PY-502 | Sports Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-401 |
| 5 | PY-503 | Electrotherapy and Thermotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-401 |
| 5 | PY-504 | Mini Project I | 0-0-6-3 | PY-405 |
| 6 | PY-601 | Advanced Neurological Physiotherapy | 3-0-0-3 | PY-302 |
| 6 | PY-602 | Research Proposal Writing | 2-0-0-2 | PY-501 |
| 6 | PY-603 | Mini Project II | 0-0-6-3 | PY-504 |
| 7 | PY-701 | Final Year Thesis/Capstone Project | 0-0-12-6 | PY-602 |
| 7 | PY-702 | Internship Program | 0-0-12-6 | PY-405, PY-603 |
| 8 | PY-801 | Capstone Project Presentation | 0-0-6-3 | PY-701 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
These advanced courses are designed to deepen students' understanding and application of specialized areas within physiotherapy:
- Neurological Rehabilitation: This course explores the pathophysiology of neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. Students learn assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, and outcome measurement methods tailored for neurologically impaired patients.
- Musculoskeletal Disorders: Focuses on common musculoskeletal disorders including arthritis, sports injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Emphasis is placed on manual therapy, exercise prescription, and pain management strategies.
- Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy: Students study the physiology of cardiopulmonary systems and learn how to apply physiotherapy techniques in managing conditions like COPD, heart failure, and post-operative recovery.
- Pediatric Physiotherapy: Designed for students interested in working with children, this course covers developmental milestones, movement disorders, and therapeutic interventions aimed at promoting healthy growth and function.
- Geriatric Physiotherapy: Examines age-related health issues including osteoporosis, balance problems, and mobility challenges. Students learn to develop individualized care plans for elderly patients focusing on fall prevention and functional independence.
- Manual Therapy Techniques: Introduces hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and muscle energy techniques. This course emphasizes safety protocols and patient-centered approaches.
- Electrotherapy and Thermotherapy: Covers the use of electrical stimulation, ultrasound, heat therapy, and cold therapy in rehabilitation settings. Students gain practical skills in selecting and applying these modalities for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
- Community Health Physiotherapy: Focuses on public health issues and community-based interventions. Students learn how to design and implement physiotherapy programs that address population-wide health needs.
- Sports Physiotherapy: Combines knowledge of sports medicine with rehabilitation techniques specific to athletes. This course prepares students for working in athletic environments and addressing sports-related injuries effectively.
- Research and Development: Encourages critical thinking and innovation for those interested in advancing the field through scientific inquiry. Students learn research design, data analysis, and publication writing skills.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department strongly advocates for project-based learning as a core component of student development. Projects are structured to encourage creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Mini-projects in the fifth and sixth semesters provide students with opportunities to explore topics of personal interest while applying learned concepts.
Mini-projects involve research, case studies, and practical applications under faculty guidance. The final year thesis/capstone project is an independent endeavor that integrates all academic learning into a significant contribution to the field. Students select their projects based on mentor availability and personal interest, with faculty members providing ongoing support throughout the process.
Evaluation criteria include research quality, presentation skills, teamwork, and practical application of knowledge. Faculty mentors play a crucial role in guiding students through each stage of their project journey, ensuring academic rigor and professional growth.